How Dental Disease Affects Your Pet’s Health 

Your pet’s wagging tail or comforting purr may seem to say, “I’m fine,” but what if their mouth is telling a different story? Poor oral health in pets is a hidden threat that impacts more than just their teeth. Surprisingly, it affects their entire body! Today, the team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center will share how those pearly (or not-so-pearly) whites play a pivotal role in your furry companion’s overall wellbeing.

Beyond Bad Breath: The True Effects of Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the most common yet overlooked health issues in pets. Most pets have it by the time they’re three or four years old! Worse still, the effects of dental disease on pets go way beyond bad breath or yellow teeth.

Plaque and tartar buildup lead to inflamed gums, pain, and eventually, serious infections. Left untreated, these infections can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, wreaking havoc on major organs.

Suddenly, what started as gum disease becomes a health problem that affects your pet’s whole body. She might experience kidney issues, liver damage, or, most alarmingly, heart complications—all because of unchecked oral health issues.

The Mouth-Body Connection:  How Dental Health Affects Overall Pet Health

How does something as small as a tooth affect your pet’s entire body?

How dental health affects overall pet health comes down to the connection between oral bacteria and systemic inflammation. AKA, inflammation throughout your pet’s body.

Dental disease doesn’t stay confined to the mouth. It spreads through the bloodstream, which is how it can harm your pet’s heart, kidneys, and other vital systems.

The link between pet heart disease and dental issues is particularly alarming. Bacteria from untreated oral infections can lead to endocarditis. This is a serious condition where the heart’s inner lining becomes inflamed. Plus, pets with poor dental health are at a higher risk in general of developing heart disease, which could significantly shorten their lifespan.

Keeping That Smile Healthy

Protecting your pet from the dangers of poor oral health in pets starts with prevention. Here’s what you can do:

• Brush your pet’s teeth regularly (as in, at least three times a week!) with pet-safe toothpaste.
• Offer dental chews, toys, and water additives designed to fight plaque.
• Schedule routine veterinary check-ups, including professional dental exams and cleanings.

These simple steps can prevent the effects of dental disease on pets and keep their mouth—and body—healthy.

Ready to schedule your pet’s next dental exam and cleaning? The team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center recommends getting one at least once a year. Call us at (916) 737-5670 to schedule an appointment today.